The effects of aflatoxin B1 on immature germinating maize (Zea mays) embryos |
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Authors: | M McLean P Berjak M P Watt M F Dutton |
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Institution: | (1) Department of Biology, University of Natal, 4001 Durban, South Africa;(2) Department of Biochemistry, University of Natal, 3200 Pietermaritzburg, South Africa |
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Abstract: | Immature maize (Zea mays L.) embryos were treated with aflatoxin B1 concentrations, ranging from 0.1 g ml–1 to 25 g ml–1. Below 5 g ml–1 aflatoxin B1, root and shoot elongation was not significantly inhibited. Ultrastructurally, root tip cells showed little deterioration, except a possible diffused clearing in mitochondria and plastids. As the toxin concentration was increased above 5 gml–1, shoot, and particularly root elongation, was progressively inhibited. Associated with this, there was an apparent decrease in the ribosome population. Furthermore, membranes, particularly the vacuolar membrane, became abnormal and vacuolar distension occurred. At 20 and 25 g ml–1, these effects were exacerbated, and mitochondria and plastid structure was disrupted. At these concentrations, there was evidence of a disruption in lipid metabolism. The results are discussed in the context of known aflatoxin effects on cellular control mechanisms and ultrastructure in animal systems. |
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Keywords: | aflatoxin B1 electron microscopy in vitro immature maize embryo Zea mays |
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